New GRE Format Introduced: What Indian Students Must Know


The GRE (Graduate Record Examination), widely accepted for Master’s, MBA, and select PhD admissions primarily in the US and Canada, has introduced a new, shorter format designed to reduce test fatigue and streamline the experience for Indian students.

Key Changes

  • Duration: Reduced to approximately 2 hours.
  • Analytical Writing: Only one essay task now, “Analyze an Issue” (30 minutes). The “Analyze an Argument” task is removed.
  • Verbal & Quant Sections: Both now have fewer questions, 27 questions each (Verbal: 41 mins, Quant: 47 mins).
  • No Breaks: The previous 10-minute scheduled break and experimental section have been eliminated.
  • Scoring: Remains unchanged (Verbal and Quant: 130–170; Writing: 0–6).
  • Score Reporting: Faster results within 8–10 days.

Advantages for Indian Students

  • Shorter test suits students accustomed to 2-hour exam durations.
  • Reduced fatigue, maintaining better focus.
  • Faster application decisions with quicker score reports.

Challenges & Tips

  • Each question now has greater importance, with a focus on accuracy.
  • Practice mock tests regularly to build stamina.
  • Strengthen analytical writing and critical reasoning skills.

For more GRE preparation strategies and personalized guidance, sign up on GD Connect.

Source: The Indian Express